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Although this can be a stressful time, the right attitude and approach can make all the difference. Morvite shares some tips on how exercise, food and drink, sleep, proper time management and a good attitude and support system can make this difficult time easier.
Exercise is not only good for keeping healthy and fit. It also promotes brain health by increasing the flow of blood to the brain as well as improving circulation to the heart and the rest of the body. Exercise also stimulates the growth of nerve cells in the part of the brain involved in memory (1) and has additional benefits such as being a temporary diversion to stress. “ Walking around the block is a good way to get the blood flowing and help students to refresh, so set time aside in your studying schedule to get out of the house,” says Mate Mamabolo, Senior Brand Manager Morvite.
Starting the day with a healthy breakfast is something to which all students should be accustomed. This is because breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Having a wholesome breakfast means you have the best start to your day, and it is linked to many health benefits like improved mental ability, heart health and better weight management (2). Morvite Instant Porridge is an ideal start to your day as it is filling, affordable and convenient. Morvite doesn’t require cooking so you won’t be wasting precious study time in the kitchen. Keeping hydrated is also very important especially in this warm weather. Students should remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day and not only when they are feeling thirsty.
Most teens need about eight and a half to nine hours of sleep each night (3). The right amount of sleep is essential for students who want to do well for their exams. Morvite suggests that to ensure a good night’s sleep, students should aim to get into a routine of going to bed around the same time every night, get regular exercise, and avoid stimulants such as beverages with caffeine after 16:00. They should try to relax their mind before going to bed, unwind by keeping the lights low, avoid napping too much or for too long during the day, and create the right sleeping environment such as playing peaceful music (3).
One of the most important aspects of getting ready for exams is for students to be able to manage their time effectively. “The best thing would be to draw up a schedule of study times which also makes allowance for break time so that you can include socialising with friends, exercising and other hobbies,” says Mamabolo. Following this timetable is important. Students should try to keep a systematic sleeping and eating time also because irregularities can become an excuse for not studying (4).
Positive thinking and a general good attitude also plays a part in coping well with exams. Students should have goals that they are working to achieve as this will keep them motivated. Students are likely to do well and cope better with exams if they have a support system in place. This will mainly be family, friends and teachers who will know and value the importance of lending a helping hand in this stressful time.
Prepare for your final revision by making summaries for each subject. Try not to speak to too many other students just before the exam as they may make you feel nervous. When it comes to the exam, read the instructions on the front of the paper carefully and make sure you know how many questions you should be answering. Read through the whole exam carefully before you start. Make sure you leave enough time before the end of the exam for proofreading and sense checking of your answers. Always, read the question twice to make sure that you fully understand the answer which is required. Identify the keywords before you answer the question and highlight these words, even for multiple choice questions. If you know an answer straight away, complete it and move to the next one. If a question is a little challenging, move on to questions that are easier to answer. You can always go back to complete challenging questions later. (5)
“Most importantly, don’t worry if it feels like you cannot remember your work, it usually means that you are just feeling a little nervous. Take a deep breath, trust yourself and focus on the task at hand,” concludes Mamabolo.
References:
1. 20 Proven benefits of exercise (https://www.health24.com/fitness/Getting_started/16-474,31214.asp)
2. Kickstart your day with breakfast (https://www.health24.com/dietnfood/Daily_meals/15-3707-3708,37608.asp)
3. How much sleep do I need (https://kidshealth.org/teen/food_fitness/wellbeing/how_much_sleep.html#cat20595 )
4. Exam tips for students (https://studies-tips.blogspot.com)
5. Exam techniques and Tips (https://www.aqa.org.uk/student-support/for-students/so-its-exam-day/before-the-exam-exam-techniques)
Issued by: Obren Motswane, Sabio Communications